Going through infertility is a lonely, isolating time.
Many couples going through infertility don’t talk about it, because it can be difficult for those who haven’t faced similar challenges to understand and also, it can be something that seems private and not a topic to be open about.
However, if you know a friend has been struggling with infertility, you likely want to let her know you support her – but you might not know the best way to go about it.
Here are four ways to help a friend going through infertility. Read on:
Listen
One of the best things you can do is to just listen to her vent, cry or simply talk about the challenges she’s faced or is facing. A listening ear from a loving friend can go a long way toward making someone facing infertility feel supported.
Don’t offer advice
If you haven’t been through infertility, don’t offer advice. Telling someone who is struggling to conceive to “relax” or try something that worked for your sister’s friend’s cousin isn’t helpful at all – and chances are she’s heard of it or tried it.
Distract her
A night on the town, a good dinner, a funny movie: All of these things can serve as a welcome distraction from the stress and strain of infertility. Set up a time with your friend to do something fun – but don’t be sad if she cancels last minute. Sometimes, infertility makes you not want to be out and about.
Be sensitive
If you are pregnant or have a baby, your friend might not want to be around you all the time because it’s a reminder of what she doesn’t have. Her feelings are valid and don’t have anything to do with you or your family, so give her the space she likely needs.
And if you become pregnant, share the news with her in a sensitive way. She’ll likely be happy for you but it might take her a minute to process.
Everything Birth
At Everything Birth, we recognize the journey of all women to become mothers and have positive and uplifting pregnancy and birth experiences!